320 vs 116
IPC 325 is renumbered to BNS 117. The criteria for Grievous Hurt has been slightly updated for modern medical standards.
What Changed?
IPC 320 required 20 days of severe bodily pain to qualify as Grievous Hurt.
BNS 116 reduces this requirement to 15 days.
Renumbered from 325 to 117 for punishment.
Verdict
"Refinement of the duration threshold for identifying serious injuries."
Detailed Analysis
320
Section Data Pending
116
Section Data Pending
Legal Implications
Practical Scenarios
"Breaking a person's nose or limb (BNS 117)."
"An injury that keeps a person in the hospital for 16 days (BNS 117)."
Expert Q&A
What is the punishment for grievous hurt in BNS?
Under BNS 117, it is up to 7 years imprisonment and a fine, identical to IPC 325.
What injuries constitute 'grievous hurt' under Section 320?
Eight exclusive categories: emasculation; permanent loss of sight in either eye; permanent loss of hearing; loss of any limb or joint; permanent impairment of a limb's function; permanent disfiguration of head or face; fracture or dislocation of any bone or tooth; any hurt endangering life or causing 20+ days of severe pain or inability to follow ordinary pursuits.
Is a broken tooth grievous hurt?
Yes — fracture of a tooth is the 7th category of grievous hurt. Even a single broken tooth elevates the charge from Section 323 (1 year, non-cognizable) to Section 325 (7 years, cognizable).
Why is Section 325 (grievous hurt) Bailable despite covering fractures and permanent disability?
This is one of the IPC's most criticised anomalies — Section 325 is Cognizable but Bailable. Section 326 (grievous hurt by dangerous weapon — up to life) is Non-Bailable. The BNS preserves Section 325's bailable status.
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